Armistice Centenary 1918-2018

On Sunday 11 November 2018, we commemorate the centenary of the Armistice that ended the First World War. At 11am, stop for one minute and give thanks to all those who sacrificed their today’s for our tomorrows.

Despite High Temperatures and no seating facilities,  Ann Street was closed in by Police and Rescue teams,  and  crowds of people crammed into the small area for the service that begun at 10.30 am. he shrine was closed because of ongoing renovation, and guests and dignitaries sat under 2 tents on chairs, with the band on the left. Projection of what was going on was what most of the visitors viewed.

Guests were introduced, short speeches were made and the Military band entertained the entire time. During the laying of the wreaths by military, international and local groups, everybody stood quietly in the heat,

After the service, and after the dignitaries left, the public were permitted to enter the enclosed area to view the wreaths, see the burning flame and pay their respects .

There were some old soldiers wearing all their medals with pride and dignity. One gentleman said that there were not many of them now left.

The band packed up and left, and the crowd quietly walked inside the monument and the medals were put away for the next ceremony. Many went to the RSL’s for the customary game of Two-up and it was the end of another day.